I have a 66 bug that is having brake problems. I've found a leak in the main line that feeds the rear brakes. the leak is by the front of the drivers seat. I'm thinking the best thing to do is replace the entire line. The part by the brake pedal looks kinda worn also.
Any suggestions as to the best way to do this? Is it possible to get a line that is pre-bent? or am I just dreaming.
Thanks for all your help,
Dan
I don't think you can get a pre-bent line. But you can get a cheap bender and a new line and do it yourself easily. Just be sure to bleed the brakes all the way around when done replacing the line. And this would be a good time to check the flex lines to the wheels as well. If they are originals or several years old, they should be replace too. They will swell shut as they age and cause brake drag problems.
Since you have a leak in the line, it would be a good idea to change the fluid completely as it absorbs moisture and will lead to corrosion in the brake system in time.
Just some added thoughts..............
-- Terry B AKA VDUBBS Buggin in Bama
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Pre-bent or stock length, it bends easily to fit.
Couple hints: Although you can get to the front connection thru the wheel well, it's much easier with the fuel tank removed.
The rear connection is a b***h. If you can, unbolt the TEE fitting in the rear so you can get a wrench on the flare nut. As suggested, this will be a great time to replace all the brake hoses; if original (likely) they are over a Qtr-century old!!
Be sure to seal the entry/exit holes with the grommets and, maybe, some caulk or you will have water leaks.
Speedy Jim
At least at one time you could buy a pre-bent tube from your VW dealer, or a standard "folded" tube from any flaps. I don't know if VW still has the pre-bent tubes, but they are not worth it. The prebent shape would be fine if you were putting the car together the same way that VW did it, with the body off, but you're not, so you'll have to take that prebent tube and bend it all sorts of different ways just to get it in.
The tubing is soft and easy to bend by hand. That's not the hard part. The hard part is making the connection at the Tee at the rear.
------------------------------------------------ Jim Adney snipped-for-privacy@vwtype3.org Madison, WI 53711 USA
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